The tourists are long gone and the cool autumn air is quickly rolling in as Rhode Island begins to change into a new world of color. One of the most beautiful seasons visually here in the Ocean State, we are given countless opportunities to enjoy our special someone. Sure, you can go out to dinner or see a movie, but why not enjoy what only this season has to offer? Check out some of these cheap date ideas and plan out your next autumn day.
1. Highland Farms Trails to Terror, South Kingstown
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from now until October 30th
The Haunted Hayride and Forrest of Fear walkthrough is sure to delight those who love a little Halloween scare. This year is Trails of Terror's 20th anniversary and the farm promises lots of new things in store for their thriller seeking guests.
Date Cost: $13-30 (see website for details)
http://www.trailstoterror.com/
2. Scituate Art Festival, Scituate
Columbus Day Weekend
"Visitors stroll the beautiful Village Green, taking in some of the most unique varieties of art, craft, sculpture and antiques."
The Scituate Art Festival is a wonderful date idea for couples who are looking for something with a little more of a creative flair. Be sure to check out the pond at the base of the graveyard behind the church; it offers some of the most stunning autumn foliage photographs. Live music and delicious food can be found throughout the festival, so come with an empty stomach and an open heart.
Date Cost: Free admission
http://www.scituateartfestival.org/
3. Thermos Picnic at Hazard Rocks, Narragansett
A hidden gem close to Narragansett Town Beach, Hazard Rock offers a beautiful view of the ocean below. A wonderful, quiet location that can be explored or simply enjoyed. Bring a thermos picnic with you and enjoy the last few warm(ish) days near the ocean.
Date Cost: Free
4. Stargazing at the Frosty Dew Observatory, Charlestown
Friday Nights from 6:00 (or a half an hour after dusk) until around 11:00, weather permitting
A truly incredible experience, the Frosty Dew Observatory in Ninigret Park offers a date night to remember as you and your sweetheart look through telescopes at the sparkling constellations above.
Date Cost: Free
http://frostydrew.org/observatory/
5. Hayride and Pumpkin Picking at Salisbury Farm, Johnston
Open Daily 10AM-5PM
A classic autumn date, Salisbury Farm offers the perfect farm experience as you bounce on the hayride to pumpkin patch fields where you can pick your own pumpkin to carve when you get home.
Date Cost: Free hayride | Price per pumpkin varies
6. Apple Picking at Sweet Berry Farm, Middletown
Open every day from 8AM-7PM
Everyone thinks of apple picking once fall comes around, right? This classic farm offers a beautiful orchard filled with crisp fruit. Grab a bite at Sweet Berry Farm's Market and Café, then soak in all of the farm's down-to-earth beauty while picking your own apples for a homemade apple pie or crisp to make later with your honey.
Date Cost: Price for apples varies, call ahead | Menu available online for the café
http://www.sweetberryfarmri.com/pyo/
7. Yawgoo Pond Trail, South Kingstown
"The 1.26 mile Yawgoo Pond Trail takes the hiker by a kettle hole bog, over Mud Brook, and through a grove of stately white pine trees. Yawgoo Trail is also noted for its thick under-story of mountain laurel, especially near the steep banks of the kettle hole, and spectacular views of pristine Yawgoo Pond. "
Hiking, scenery and beautiful instagram-worthy photos; need I say anything more? The perfect fall date for that crisp October day.
Date Cost: Free
http: //www.exploreri.org/gSiteReport2.php? siteID = 1 ...
8. Fortress of Nightmares, Newport
October 21-23 and 28-10, 7-10PM
A classic haunted house attraction, the Fortress of Nightmares provides the perfect opportunity for hand-holding. With a small haunted house and a thrilling walkthrough the old tunnels of Fort Adams, this date holds a hour or two of fun.
Date Cost: $15 admission, extra for games
http://www.fortressofnightmares.org/
9. Clark Farms, Matunuck
Open everyday including special night hours (check website)
What fall season is complete without going through a corn maze? Clark Farm is a wonderful place to do just that, along with enjoying a few hours-worth of activities. Check out the animals in the petting zoo as well as all of the "kids stuff" (who cares how silly you look!).
Date Cost: Under $10 admission (price varies throughout season, call for details)
http://www.clarkfarms.com/family-fun-at-the-farm/c...
10. Scenic Drive along Ministerial Road, South Kingstown
Nothing beats an autumn drive with your someone special. Ministerial Road, while not a crazy long drive, offers some of the most beautiful foliage in Southern Rhode Island, reaching from URI's Ryan Center to Rt 1.
Date Cost: Free!
